Lexington Herald-Leader GEAR UP Gazette
Published January, 2008

Dear Mr. Wray and GEAR UP,

I was wanting to let you know how much I appreciate the GEAR UP program and for the recent field trip for "Mom and Dad go to College". It was extremely helpful for my son, and I, it has made a huge difference in his attitude towards school.

He is now really looking forward to college and thinking about what he needs to do academically to get there. He is excited about a degree in engineering or computer science and even in a space program.

I can't tell you what a relief this is for me as a parent. So much of what we tell our children "We need to get you ready for college." is so far away to them that it doesn't seem real. I truly believe that this past GEAR UP field trip opened my son’s eyes that college isn't that far away and it is something to really look forward to. It helped me to see that there are options to help pay for college and how important it is to start researching colleges and financial aid even now when my son is in Middle School.

Thank you so very much for helping us. I am truly grateful for GEAR UP opening our eyes and helping us feel positive about this big step.

Sincerely,

Rita Ramsay
Clark-Moores Middle School Parent
Madison County, KY Schools

For more information contact:
Terry Hosler
Berea College GEAR UP